Indiana School Official Accused of Student Sex May Avoid Charges Due to Interrogation Video

Prosecutor warns the released police interrogation video could jeopardize a fair trial for Alicia Hughes

Mar. 11, 2026 at 9:34pm

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Alicia Hughes, a 31-year-old school secretary in Union City, Indiana, was arrested last month on five counts of child seduction after allegedly having sex with two students, ages 17 and 18. However, the lead prosecutor in the case is now warning that the release of the police interrogation video showing Hughes crying during questioning could result in the case being dismissed, as it may have prejudiced her right to a fair trial.

Why it matters

This case highlights the challenges prosecutors face when trying to balance the public's right to information with ensuring a fair trial for the accused, especially when sensitive interrogation videos are released without their approval. It also raises questions about the appropriate protocols for law enforcement when handling cases involving alleged sexual misconduct by school officials.

The details

According to police, Hughes was allegedly caught with the 18-year-old student by her husband on Valentine's Day, which led to a battery call. During the investigation, authorities discovered Hughes had also had sex with a 17-year-old student on at least five occasions. In the released interrogation video, Hughes can be seen discussing the allegations with a police officer, admitting to having sex with the 18-year-old three times before invoking her right to a lawyer. The prosecutor, David Daly, has stated that the release of this video was not authorized by his office and could jeopardize Hughes' right to a fair trial.

  • On Valentine's Day, Hughes was allegedly caught with the 18-year-old student by her husband.
  • Hughes was arrested last month on five counts of child seduction.
  • Hughes' trial is set for June 15, 2026.

The players

Alicia Hughes

A 31-year-old school secretary in Union City, Indiana, who was arrested on five counts of child seduction for allegedly having sex with two students, ages 17 and 18.

David Daly

The Randolph County Prosecutor who is warning that the release of the police interrogation video of Hughes could jeopardize her right to a fair trial.

Mark Ater

The director of public safety for the Union City Police Department, who defended the department's decision to release the excerpt of the interrogation video.

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What they’re saying

“The recent release of the video interview of Ms. Hughes did not come from my office, and my office did not authorize, approve or have anything to do with its release.”

— David Daly, Randolph County Prosecutor (Muncie Star Press)

“Let me be clear, the police department did not seek, nor was it required to seek, approval from the prosecutor's office before releasing this brief excerpt. The release was lawful, measured and deliberate. The portion disclosed contained no admission of criminal conduction.”

— Mark Ater, Director of Public Safety, Union City Police Department (Union City Police Department statement)

What’s next

The judge in the case will decide on whether to allow the interrogation video to be used as evidence at Hughes' trial, which is scheduled for June 15, 2026.

The takeaway

This case highlights the delicate balance between transparency and protecting the rights of the accused, as well as the need for clear protocols between law enforcement and prosecutors when handling sensitive cases involving alleged misconduct by school officials.